Let's say you are planning to put your ad on a billboard. Your printer will notice that your logo is pixelated. He will ask for a specific file format but you do not know much about what logo file type you should send. Are you still going to proceed with a bad-quality image? Of course, not! To have an insight into logo file size and other aspects of the files is part of a designer’s job. However, a good knowledge of the files is very important if you want to achieve a high image quality print output. Here are some basic things you should know about the different logo file formats.
(AI) Adobe Illustrator
An AI file is a vector-based file format created in Adobe Illustrator. This file format is widely used by designers in creating and editing a logo. This is also the most important file requirement from print shops when prepping a project for print, especially signages. So if you want the best quality print output, this file format is what you need.
(EPS) Encapsulate PostScript
EPS file format is also a vector-based file format exported from Adobe Illustrator. This file format is easily scalable without sacrificing image quality. Although it is becoming outdated, some print shops with older software will still request these files so they are good to have on hand.
(SVG) Scalable Vector Graphic
SVG file format is commonly used for websites or apps to keep logos and icons sharp and is infinitely scalable without pixelation. This file can also be used for printing purposes as it is also a vector-based file format.
(PDF) Portable Document Format
A PDF file format is another editable vector-based file format. It’s typically used for printing and easily sharing documents online. Keep in mind that a PDF might be a vector file depending on if it’s exported from Adobe Illustrator or different software like Powerpoint or Photoshop. PDF is a very common file type and can be viewed in a finder window, web browser, or Adobe Acrobat Reader. In fact, most print shop requires their clients to submit their logo in vector PDF file format.
(JPEG) Joint Photographic Experts Group
JPEG or JPG file is a raster-based image popularly used for web or print. Its lossy compression allows for smaller file sizes than PNG, but this file does not support transparent backgrounds. Unlike vector-based file formats, JPEGs must be created with the correct size and resolution before submitting to the printer.
(PNG) Portable Graphics Network
Similar to JPEG, a PNG file is also a raster-based graphic for web and print usage. Supporting transparent backgrounds is a key advantage over JPEG, but file sizes are typically larger. These files are pixel-based and cannot be scaled up without pixelation. This means they must be exported with the correct size and resolution for the end user.
It is necessary to have the correct logo file type for the job. Make sure your graphic designer should deliver you a range of files so you may utilize them across all of your marketing platforms. Request an AI or EPS file from your designer, as this is the original file from which all other file types can be created. Keep in mind that good quality and professional-looking print output is a reflection of your business.
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